~ Bailey Shawley, M.Ed, CCTS-F, Specialized Parenting and Educational Consultant
Today is World Mental Health Day 2024. The goal is to raise awareness of mental health issues globally and to provide an opportunity for providers to talk about their work, collaborate to promote efforts to support mental health, and continue conversations about making mental health services more accessible worldwide. I’ve been fortunate enough to attend several meetings in Central PA to do just that since opening B Connecting, LLC in July of this year. There are so many local efforts to improve access to mental health for community members, and I am proud to be part of much of it.
My concern, however, is that people are not taking advantage of the available mental health services, Open Houses, outreach efforts, or community events. It’s difficult to be in this field and know that high-quality care is available but see that people aren’t accessing it. When I was a Director of School-Based Services, I struggled to come to terms with the fact that services literally were provided in school during the school day to eliminate barriers to services for kids, but many parents would not return calls or follow through with the one in-person intake session required to start their student in services. You really can lead a horse to water but not make it drink.
But, then I reminded myself of exactly what it takes for someone to seek and receive mental health support and services. The amount of vulnerability that is required to engage in mental health services is astronomical. Clients have to share secrets, shame, guilt, trauma, intrusive thoughts… all with a stranger, and all within a set time limit. And that’s after signing so much paperwork that you may as well have just purchased a vehicle or a home. Clients also have to worry about insurance, co-pays, deductibles, transportation, and childcare. Unfortunately, these barriers often deter people from seeking the mental health help and support they want and need.
There also is the giant elephant in the room known as the stigma surrounding mental health. I am so very thankful for the celebrities, athletes, musicians, and organizations who work to combat the stigma every day. Most of our local school districts also are working to incorporate social and emotional learning into classrooms, and that is helping educate local families on the importance of self-care and mental health support. But, the fact remains that people are worried about what others will think if they find out that they see a counselor or a psychiatrist. That’s why we work so hard to protect confidentiality and provide safe, comfortable, judgment-free zones for clients and continue offering community events so you can meet us and learn about our services.
And so, on this World Mental Health Day, I remind you that mental health support and care are available when you are ready to seek it. The initial fear, stigma, and barriers are not impossible to overcome. If it is too overwhelming to choose a provider, talk with your primary care physician about making a referral for you. Or, call the phone number on the back of your insurance card to get a list of local providers who accept your insurance. Ask a trusted loved one or friend accompany you to your first appointment. I guarantee that when you are ready to schedule an appointment, local providers and agencies are here to help. Of course, I recommend my colleagues at Pine Creek Valley Wellness Center for all of your mental health needs.
So, how do my consulting services fit into the mental health puzzle? I specialize in trauma, coping skills, family dynamics, communication, relaxation, education, and the mind-body connection. I am trained to listen, guide you through setting and working toward personal and/or professional goals, and provide you with evidence-based strategies and techniques to help you along the way. I also am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist – Family (CCTS-F) and am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a specialized type of trauma therapy. All of my practices are trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ friendly. Clients can see me for additional support, even if they currently are in services with a mental health provider, since I do not accept insurance. I also see clients who do not meet diagnostic criteria for mental health services.
I currently am accepting individuals (ages 5 and up), parents, families, educators, and therapists as clients who are seeking to strengthen connection, communication, and comprehension. Hour-long individual and family consulting sessions are available in person and online. If you’re looking for help with relaxation and stress management, I also offer half-hour chakra readings, half-hour Reiki healing sessions, and full-hour Reiki sessions. Parenting workshops and workshops centered on relaxation and stress management also are coming soon!
When you’re ready to schedule an individual, parenting, or group consultation, reach out. The first consultation is free of charge to make sure we are a good fit and is available online or in person. Or, schedule a Reiki healing session or chakra reading. All B Connecting, LLC services are confidential and judgment free.
B Connecting, LLC 